Elevated air pollution levels at the Central Bank of Cyprus

The Central Bank of Cyprus (CBC) announced on Thursday that it is taking immediate precautionary measures to protect employees from pollutants in the workplace.

According to a statement, the CBC took samples of the air inside its building for analysis.

The results revealed that certain pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds and formaldehyde, exceeded the prescribed concentration limits.

Acting on the advice of the relevant health departments, CBC governor Constantinos Herodotou then ordered immediate measures be taken to ensure worker safety.

The CBC has initiated a comprehensive risk audit in collaboration with experts.

The audit will include new measurements carried out by accredited laboratories to identify the causes behind the elevated pollution levels.

Until such time as the matter has been investigated and resolved, arrangements have been made to ensure external air supply to the building. Other measures include installing air purifiers and sensors, as well as continuous monitoring of the air quality.

Robotic equipment will be used to clean the ventilation ducts in the CBC building. Additionally, as a precautionary measure and to facilitate operations, teleworking has been made available to staff members.

On Wednesday, when the issue became known, bank employees union Etyk said it had received a number of complaints over concerns on the matter. The union said it contacted the labour inspection department calling on it to take readings.

A similar incident took place in 2018 and was resolved.